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Abdomen

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The Physical Exam

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Abstract

An organized sequence for examining the abdomen is outlined. Signs from observing texture, contour, and swelling of the abdomen help differentiate obesity from ascites. The etiologies of abdominal discoloration, venous patterns, and the differentiating features of striae are presented. Included are appropriate indications for auscultation for bowel sounds and vascular bruit.

Skills for palpating the abdomen are provided that help recognize peritonitis and disorders of the individual visceral organs. The advantageous use of light percussion to complement palpation in the sensitive abdomen is presented. The signs of appendicitis are highlighted along with the vagaries of its presentation.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Medicine, Westchester Medical Center, New York Medical College, Kent Lakes, New York, USA

    Raymond E. Phillips MD, FACP

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  1. Raymond E. Phillips MD, FACP
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Phillips, R.E. (2018). Abdomen. In: The Physical Exam. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-63847-8_20

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-63847-8_20

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-319-63846-1

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-319-63847-8

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